Antarctica has no permanent residents and no sovereign government of its own — it’s governed collectively under the Antarctic Treaty System. The countries closest to Antarctica are almost entirely in the southern tip of South America and a scattering of Southern Ocean island territories.
The Closest Inhabited Countries to Antarctica
- Chile — its southernmost territory, near Cape Horn, is the closest mainland point to Antarctica of any country, and Chile maintains research bases on the continent itself
- Argentina — similarly close via Tierra del Fuego, and also maintains a significant permanent research presence in Antarctica
- South Africa — a significant gateway to Antarctica via the Southern Ocean, despite being much farther away than South American nations
- New Zealand and Australia — both serve as major logistical gateways to Antarctica from the Pacific side, and both maintain territorial claims on the continent
See area and geography data for these countries on our Rankings page.
Who “Owns” Antarctica?
No country holds sovereign ownership over Antarctica. Seven countries — Argentina, Australia, Chile, France, New Zealand, Norway, and the United Kingdom — maintain formal territorial claims to sections of the continent, but these claims are set aside (not renounced, but not actively enforced) under the 1959 Antarctic Treaty, which reserves the entire continent for peaceful scientific research and prohibits military activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What country is closest to Antarctica?
Chile and Argentina are the closest inhabited countries to Antarctica, both accessible via the southern tip of South America.
Does anyone own Antarctica?
No single country owns Antarctica. Seven nations maintain territorial claims, but the Antarctic Treaty sets these aside in favor of shared international scientific use.
Does Antarctica have a permanent population?
No — Antarctica has no permanent civilian residents, only rotating scientific researchers and support staff stationed at research bases.
Compare geography for the countries closest to Antarctica using our Compare tool.
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